Recent content by hi-fi132

I'd be interested, particularly in the CD player, but too far for collection. If you don't get any interest and change your mind about posting, please let me know.

Yes, probably the capstan belt is loose as I believe it drives the mechanism functions on that model. I can't remember how easy they are to service though as it's been a while since I worked on one.

Sounds like the heads aren't fully engaging with the tape. These mechanisms have a belt that rotates a drive pulley to lift the head into place. I've fixed a few and the mechanism is a pain to work on, but the electronics don't usually go wrong.

significantly Downgraded most of the system which freed up a lot of cash to buy more music and enjoy other things in life. Made me a lot happier, like a huge weight lifted. I don't think I could ever go back.

I'd buy an Arylic streaming amp, some small bookshelf speakers (wharfedale Diamonds most likely) and spend most of the money on a decent turntable, something like an AT_LP5X that will actually have a chance of sounding better than a cheap Digital source.

You can get units and end panels in different colours from some kitchen suppliers, Ikea included. And there's always vinyl wrap, which can look great if done properly.

I've been looking into hi-fi cabinets myself recently, trying to find something off-the-shelf that would be wide enough to accommodate 2 460 mm boxes side-by-side, and at least 450 mm deep without costing a fortune. I didn't find anything suitable. It occurred to me however that a kitchen base...

Cambridge CXA81 and Azur 851A, Yamaha A-S2200

turntable on the top, and the rest positioned to allow the best possible cable management. Assuming the rack is open with reasonable space between the shelves I see no reason not to put the amp on the bottom. I'd probably go (from the top down) turntable, phono stage, CD player, tuner, cassette...

Never paid more here, though I do think it's a commendably honest thing to do. That said it's so easy to research a fair price these days, I don't consider it my job to do the work for the seller if they haven't made the effort. I will haggle but I won't make silly low offers that would risk...

You're probably right, though some still seem to be able to source hardwood. The price of solid wood worktop for example hasn't gone up much.

A real shame but not surprising. I build guitars and the price of solid wood has skyrocketed with some species very difficult to get hold of. The price of veneers and veneered sheets is going through the roof. Until it settles down the price of speakers is going to continue to climb. I hope Rega...

I've always had Audio Origami carry out any arm work for me. One of my decks has his upgraded RB202 with every option bar the paint strip, including the upgraded bearings, foam fill, the cheapest internal wire and the external cable with additional ground. Johnny has always done stellar work...

how well was it packed for shipping and what was the damage?

If I want kit that is well built and will last decades I'd look to the big Japanese brands. I'd doubt I'd buy British, though I might consider British-designed kit made over seas.